John Crane has realised a 99.8% reduction in water consumption at an LNG export facility in Louisiana, US, through the deployment of its advanced Type SB2 USP dual-cartridge seal. This project highlights the substantial sustainability gains achievable through modern mechanical seal design and resource-efficient engineering.
The introduction of the Type SB2 USP seals for high-temperature hot well pump operations enabled the facility to decrease daily water usage from approximately 2,000 gallons to a mere 3–4 gallons. This considerable reduction provides immediate cost savings and long-term efficiency benefits for the operator.
Previously, the pumps utilised conventional mechanical seals with an API Plan 32 demineralised water flush, necessitating a continuous supply of treated water to cool and lubricate the seal faces. Although effective, this method was water-intensive, increasing operational costs, particularly at the elevated process temperatures involved. In contrast, the Type SB2 USP seals are engineered to function reliably between 180°C and 200°C with minimal water use.
John Crane’s Type SB2 USP seal employs proprietary non-contacting upstream pumping technology, using buffer fluid to cool and lubricate the seal faces. This innovation reduces the need for external water flushes while maintaining stable performance under demanding conditions. The solution was delivered and installed within eight weeks without any reported implementation challenges, enabling immediate, measurable water savings for the operator.
Since installation, the facility has consistently maintained stable seal performance while significantly reducing reliance on demineralised water. The success of this implementation has prompted the operator to consider broader adoption of the Type SB2 USP seal across its facilities as part of a comprehensive sustainability and operational optimisation programme.
“This project shows what is possible when advanced sealing technology is applied to high-temperature, high-demand processes,” said Mike Eason, Chief Technology Officer, John Crane. “Achieving a 99.8% reduction in water consumption is a powerful example of how engineering innovation can support both operational efficiency and responsible resource management.”
